Fantastic shape, fantastic sound, great to play!! I've been a guitarist and singer for many years, but only took up bass around 18 months ago. A friend of mine once said that "music is a very visual medium", which is why all my instruments have to look great. This bass is a retro looker, but with modern sound capabilities. The sound is punchy and clear, with wide ranging tonal capabilities. At this price, it's almost rude not to buy one! Great service from Thomann- ordered on a Sunday evening and it was here by Thursday morning. Also, as far as I know, in the UK, this is only available in black or sunburst. The only thing that could make it better is a pearloid scratch plate, but the dead tortoise looks good! If I was going to be picky, the control panel doesn't fit quite flush to the body.